Spotlight Interview – Vana

Vana is a model and singer who is originally from Croatia, but now lives in Oslo, Norway. Despite her increasingly hectic schedule working to promote her single “Let’s Pretend”, she kindly agreed to complete a spotlight feature interview for Urbanity Chic. Read on to find out, amongst other things, who inspires her, who her favourite photographer is and what motivates her to do what she does.

Vana - Photograph by Jens Haugen

Vana - Photograph by Elisabeth Haugerud Rom

Q: How did you get into fashion modeling?

I started in Elite Model look in 1998. My passion for fashion has always been a big part of me and my personality. In 2008, I was selected top 15 in Norwegian Top Model tv show.

Q: How was 2010 for you?

2010 was a year of change. I got a new french manager and started on my first music single “Let`s Pretend” that is on Itunes since 16th of may!!! In the same time I did some catwalk shows here in Norway .

Q: Who inspires you?

Strong and self confident women who wants to change the world and give hope and Love. I call them good fairies and they do make a change with their magic.

Q: Which modern day fashion designers or fashion icons do you look up to?

My favorite designer is and has always been Roberto Cavalli.

I look up to Madonna and Beyonce in the entertainments world as well as the models Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks.

Vana - Photograph by Elisabeth Haugerud Rom

Vana - Photograph by Gio Trentadue

Q: Do you prefer to shoot on location or in the studio?

Location.

Q: Do you have an interesting stories about a particular photo shoot, or a casting you’d like to share?

In 2008 for a Norwegian Top Model TV show’s casting I was selected in the top 15 out of 1,700 girls. That was a great moment!

Q: How do you prepare for a fashion shoot or show?

Positive energy and a big smoothie! I don`t drink and smoke and I make sure I sleep at night!

Vana - Photograph by Gio Trentadue

Vana - Photograph by Jens Haugen

Q: Who is your favourite photographer?

Mario Testino.

Q: Is there anybody you would like to work with?

I would love to work with Mario Testino, that`s one of my big dreams.

Q: What does fashion mean to you?

I love fashion and it is a very important thing in my life.I have been in love with fashion since I was born.

Q: How would you define your personal style?

Very chic! It´s important for me that my style match my personality. I love bags and shoes!

Q: Where are you based?

Oslo Norway, but I will travel in the future in Europe,U.S…

Vana - Photograph by Elisabeth Haugerud Rom

Vana - Photograph by Elisabeth Haugerud Rom

Q: What’s it like being where you’re from?

Well. I was born in Croatia, that place is awesome in the summertime! Norway is cold and expensive ,but what a great nature! I love it.

Q: What’s been the highlight of your career to date?

I hope I haven’t yet come to my highlight ! I hope my single “Let´s Pretend” will bring light and Love!

Vana: Let's Pretend - Photograph by Jens Haugen

Q: What are you hoping to achieve in 2011?

Some of the dreams I had since I was born.

Q: What do you do to relax?

I do some yoga meditation and I love to spend time on my Dad’s boat with my family in Croatia. I love candle lights and chill out with music like Enya and Monte Carlo nights.

Q: What songs are on your ipod at the moment?

Let me check!

“All of the lights” Kanye West ft Rihanna!

“Run away” Kanye West

“S&M” Rihanna

Q: Do you have interesting hobbies?

Making the ones I love happy!

Vana - Photograph by Gio Trentadue

Vana - Photograph by Gio Trentadue

Q: If you could give a little piece of advice for new or aspiring models what would it be?

Stay strong and never give up. Close your ears when people want to bring you down. Don`t be a follower, be a leader! Make sure to not drink or smoke! Don`t diet to much, it`s not good for your body! Make sure you progress on pictures and shoots year after year no matter of age. Work out and smile ! Models that look dead don`t shine.

Never let people tell you what to do and how to feel.

Q: What motivates you to do what you do?

Faith in God.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to let our readers know about?

My homepage www.vanaperisa.com has had over 176.000 views since 1 November! New pictures will be coming on 1st June! Also, make sure you get my new single “Let´s Pretend” produced by THE INSIDER on Itunes!

Editor’s Note: Vana’s stylish, glamorous and commercial look does not detract from someone who is very talented in lots of different areas and has a quiet determination as well as talent to succeed. 2011 should be a breakout year for Vana!

Monica Bellucci

Vana - Photograph by Jens Haugen

If you’d like to learn more about or contact Vana just follow the links below: